A study presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress 2024 in Amsterdam has revealed the potential of semaglutide in treating hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) in patients with obesity.
The research, led by Dr. Daniel Lyons of St. Vincent’s University Hospital in Dublin, examined 30 patients with obesity and HS who received a mean weekly dose of 0.8 mg of semaglutide for an average of 8.2 months. The results showed significant improvements in several key areas.
Patients experienced a reduction in HS flares, with the frequency decreasing to once every 12 weeks from once every 8.5 weeks. Quality of life, as measured by the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), improved substantially, with the mean score dropping to nine from 13 out of 30.
“Our findings suggest that semaglutide, even at modest doses, can offer substantial benefits in managing HS. While the drug’s role in promoting weight loss is well-established, what’s particularly exciting is its potential to also reduce the frequency of HS flares, contributing to the notable improvements observed in patients’ quality of life,” Dr. Lyons stated in a press release from the EADV.
The study also demonstrated significant weight loss among participants. Mean body weight decreased to 111.6 kg from 117.7 kg (p<0.0001), with one-third of patients losing 10 kg or more during the treatment period.
Additionally, the research revealed improvements in metabolic markers. Glucose and HbA1c levels decreased to 36.61 mmol/mol from 39.32 mmol/mol (adjusted p=0.0335), while average C-reactive protein (CRP) levels dropped to 6.94 mg/L from 7.78 mg/L, suggesting improved glycemic control and reduced inflammation.
HS, which affects approximately one in 100 people, has long been associated with obesity. Current treatments for the condition are limited, underscoring the need for alternative therapies.
Dr. Raed Alhusayen, a Toronto dermatologist who was not involved in the study, commented on the potential mechanism of action: “Semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may help manage HS primarily by promoting weight loss. Because obesity is a major risk factor for HS, losing weight can reduce skin friction and systemic inflammation, improving HS symptoms.”
While these results are promising, Dr. Lyons emphasized the need for further research: “To build on this progress, larger randomized controlled trials are necessary to validate these findings. Additionally, future research should explore the impact of higher doses of semaglutide and its effects independently of concomitant medications to fully understand its potential.”
The study’s findings could represent a significant advancement in HS treatment, potentially offering a new approach for dermatologists managing this challenging condition, the researchers said.
“Ultimately, we hope our preliminary data will encourage dermatologists to consider weight loss medication as an adjunct to existing HS treatments and inspire further research in this area aimed at improving outcomes for people living with this challenging condition,” said Dr. Lyons.
Comments